AllFreeNovel
Share Us
I admire her so much. Although docile, she is far braver and stronger than I am.
“I was thinking of visiting my neighbors,” she reveals with a small smile. A part of me wishes Pepsi was included in the reunion.
“That all sounds really wonderful. I can’t wait to hear all about it.”
Sara nods while I sip my coffee. We’re deep in thought because our futures, something which was uncertain for us both, are within grasp. This is our goodbye because come nightfall, we will go our separate ways.
Some goodbyes are better than others. But this isn’t goodbye—it’s so long, for now.
It’s amazing the things you’ll miss when knowing you’ll never see them again. This barn is one of those things.
Standing in the middle of the room, I look around and commit to memory the time spent here. Nothing will ever compare to this place because my life changed forever here. My gaze drifts to the spot where Saint and I consummated our love, and an unexpected nostalgia swells.
Regardless of our dire circumstances, we have survived. No matter the obstacles, we’re here, together, and that thought gives me some comfort because all of it wasn’t for nothing.
Before all of this, I was held prisoner to the past, but now, those shackles are free, and I am reborn. I don’t know what’ll happen when we get to America, but for the first time, I don’t mind. I have been through hell and back, and here I stand, ready for the next chapter in my life.
I’m no longer scared. I’m calm. Alek has been on my mind, but this is one battle I’ve lost, so I must accept defeat. It pains me to know that soon, Alek will be dead, and Oscar and Astra will be free. Such a disappointing ending. I hate it.
But sometimes, you have to sacrifice a plot twist to get your happily ever after, and when Saint walks into the barn, I know he was worth it all.
“Ready?” he asks.
He’s been awfully quiet all day, but we all have. We’ve all been in our own heads, lost to what comes next.
“Yes,” I reply, taking everything in one last time. Walking over to the stall, I pat the cow on the nose, wishing her well. These humble lodgings have been my sanctuary, and I’ll never forget them for as long as I live.
“Are you okay?”
With a sigh, I nod. “I am.”
Saint allows me all the time I need. But I’m ready. It’s finally time. My suitcase is already in the van, so with nothing left inside here for me, I walk toward Saint and link my fingers through his. I lock eyes with him, our gaze saying so much.
I never thought it would come to this. I never believed he would be the one to baptize me into this new world, but he did. He has opened my eyes and heart, and I will never forget everything we’ve been through.
Without a word, we leave this world, intent on embarking upon something new. The snow is thick, so we shield our faces and march our way through. Larisa stands in the doorway, watching Pavel pack everything into the black van.
Sara and Max are placing their belongings in the back seat of their SUV.
Zoey emerges from the house, stopping by Larisa. I can’t hear what they’re saying, but when Zoey hugs her, it isn’t hard to guess their farewell is heartfelt. Larisa hugs her tightly, rubbing her back gently.
Seeing Zoey this way gives me hope that she isn’t completely dead inside. I doubt we’ll ever be friends, but for Saint’s sake, I’ll try. Sara walks over to us, blowing on her hands. “Max and I are going the same way as you are. We’ll be behind you for most of the journey. Well, happy travels,” she says with a smile.
“You too, Sara. Stay safe.”
Saint gives my hand a reassuring squeeze before hugging Sara gently. “All the best, Sara. I hope you find happiness.”
Tears suddenly well in her eyes, which instantly have my own threatening to break free. “You too, Saint,” she replies, nuzzling into his neck as she stands on her tippy toes.
They too have shared so much heartache; it’s nice to see their farewell is different.
“I’ll never forget you,” she whispers, closing her eyes. “Thank you for everything you did for Hans. He respected you so much.”
“Shh,” he coos, rubbing her back. “Let’s not speak of the past. Only the future.”
When a single tear falls down her cheek, I chew my lip to stop mine from spilling. Max walks over, appearing rather sheepish. We haven’t exactly been friends, but we’ve been on the same side. And that’s enough.
“Good luck with everything,” he says, extending a hand. I accept it because regardless of our past, he’s been good to my friend, and that’s all that matters.
